LOS ANGELES, Sept. 18, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) has been honored with a top ranking by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) for its commitment to diversity by ensuring the rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) employees.

Northrop Grumman, which received a 100-percent rating, was one of 195 companies receiving a top ranking this year.

The sixth annual HRC Corporate Equality Index nationally surveyed a broad cross-section of 519 major companies. On a scale of zero to 100 percent, the organization rated the companies based on whether they have a written non-discrimination policy covering sexual orientation; offer inclusive health insurance, bereavement and family leave policies to employees with same-sex partners; offer diversity training; have GLBT employee groups; and engage in advertising and contributions to the GLBT community.

"This ranking reflects Northrop Grumman's strong commitment to an inclusive environment for all of its employees," said Sandra Evers-Manly, vice president of corporate responsibility. "We are proud to once again have been given a perfect score by the Human Rights Campaign."

The HRC's report includes surveys from Fortune 1000, Standard and Poor's 500, Forbes' list of the 200 largest privately held firms, as well as the American Lawyer 200.

Northrop Grumman Corporation is a $30 billion global defense and technology company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in information and services, electronics, aerospace and shipbuilding to government and commercial customers worldwide.